Phulchowki is the highest hill near Kathmandu and is situated to the south of the city. To get there you need to drive to Godawari (14 km south of Kathmandu), where you start the hike. You will be able to see sub-tropical thick forests filled with rhododendrons and oak trees as well as several species of orchids, butterflies, and birds. From the top you get a breathtaking view of the valley and on clear days you can see the eastern parts of the Annapurna range to Gaurishankar in the east. While you are there, why not check out the Botanical Gardens in Godawari.

Phulchowki hill is surrounded by the dense forest of different plants including Rhododendron of different colors, including pure white and dark red. Because of this beautiful and dense forest different species of birds and butterflies can be found. During your hike you can see different kinds of birds such as Rufous-gorgeted, Flycatcher, Rufous-bellied Niltava, Yellow-browed Tit, Chestnut-headed Tesia, Red-billed Leiothrix, Whiskered Yuhina, Besra, Bronzed and Racket-tailed Drongos, Greater Yellow nape, Grey-headed Woodpecker, Nepal Cutia, Ultramarine Flycatcher, and Black-winged Cuckoo shrike.

It is also the only place in the vicinity of Kathmandu to experience snowfall in winter.